David Bowie's family planning private memorial

David Bowie's family members have asked fans to stay away from a private memorial they are planning to honour the late rocker.

A spokesman for the star's grieving widow, Iman, and the couple's daughter, Alexandria, has posted an announcement on the singer's official Facebook page.

It reads: "The family of David Bowie is currently making arrangements for a private ceremony celebrating the memory of their beloved husband, father and friend.

"They ask once again that their privacy be respected at this most sensitive of times."

"We are overwhelmed by and grateful for the love and support shown throughout the world," the message continues. "Just as each and every one of us found something unique in David's music, we welcome everyone's celebration of his life as they see fit."

The Let's Dance hitmaker lost his battle with cancer on Sunday (10Jan16). He was 69.

Reports early on Thursday (14Jan16) suggested Bowie's body had already been cremated with no friends or family present.

It's suggested Bowie spoke to his model wife Iman about his desire for no fanfare following his death.

"In many respects you don’t need a memorial or service to remember David by... You have his music instead," an insider told British newspaper The Mirror. "He would have wanted to just disappear with no fuss, no big show, no fan-fare. This would totally be his style. His last album Blackstar was very much his goodbye to fans instead."